PatriceFitnessPal wrote: »

@ewilhelm2487 - I’m not a vegetarian but I’d like to incorporate more fruit, vegetables, and legumes into my diet. We lived in Japan for many years, and my husband is half Japanese, so we eat a lot of tofu. We buy the firm tofu, which is nice on its own with some soy sauce and scallions. We also like Japanese vegetable curry, and meat-free curry from other countries, too.

For the slow cooker, I like to make chili with vegetables and beans. You can also add the meatless crumbles and I’ll bet your meat-eating family members won’t be able to tell the difference. If you like Mediterranean food, hummus and falafel are too good options. It’s easy to make or buy hummus so I like to buy the large size Arabic bread and separate the pita into two large circles by cutting around the edge. Then, it’s easy to spread a thin layer of cucumber yogurt spread or hummus and add any vegetables you like. For soup, lentils and white beans are great to add.

We sometimes use the meatless crumbles to make fajitas, tacos, or burritos if you think your family would enjoy those. Of course, you can also make a big salad and have some chicken, beef, or salmon available on the side for others. A baked potato with sides (e.g., bacon, cheese, or sour cream for them and cucumber yogurt topping for you?) is another option. I’ll try to think about a few other plant-based staples we like and post a recipe or two in Jessica’s weekly challenge space. It takes a little practice but I’m sure you’ll be able to gradually complement your usual dishes with more vegetarian choices over time. I think the key is not to be too strict or hard on yourself all at once. To me, it seems easier to start with some (low fat) chicken or fish with vegetables while you practice switching in replacement options for the higher fat items, but you’ll find what works for you. I just take longer to adjust to new behaviors than other people, I think.